Saturday, November 20, 2021

Answered Prayer

Black and White Floral Textile

 

The prayer of the righteous person is powerful and effective. We start by confessing our sins and praying for each other to find healing in our spirit, soul, and body (James 5:16). Our petitions come before our Father God as He sits on His throne, and He takes them seriously (1 John 5:14; Jeremiah 42:2; Psalm 18:6, 145:18).

 

We develop a habit of rejoicing regardless of our circumstances, praying each moment of the day, and continually thanking God for His love, understanding, forgiveness, and perfect plans for us (1 Thessalonians 5:17). We pray to God, not wavering in our faith in His faithfulness (James 1:6).

 

We consult the Lord each time we are ready to pursue His will for our next moment in time. He guides us through our day with His perfect peace, and His joy fills our heart. By always consulting the Lord, we escape many trials in life (Luke 21:36; Philippians 4:6-7). We will not grow weary if we spend time in prayer throughout the day (Luke 18:1).

 

We pray for one another too. As those gathered in the Upper Room, we pray together in one accord (Acts 1:14). We ask God to fill us with the knowledge of His will with all His wisdom and spiritual understanding (Colossians 1:9; Matthew 18:20; Hebrews 4:16). Our Heavenly Father knows what is best for us.

 

Some people pray to the gods of their own making – following the advice of teachers of false religions. Their prayers fall on deaf ears, and they cannot understand why their prayers are not answered (1 Kings 18:20-40; Matthew 6:7; 1 Peter 3:12). Regardless of how fervent they pray, they make their petitions in the natural rather than by the Spirit of God (Isaiah 59:2; Psalm 66:18).

 

Yet, if we pray in Jesus’ name, God hears us and answers us in His kindness, benevolence, generosity, and love (John 14:13). When we call on His name in prayer, He saves us from the eternal destination of hell and destruction (Acts 2:21). We thank Him for hearing our prayers and for answering them according to His perfect plans for our life.

 

Prayer:

Father God, remind us to consult You in prayers that never cease both day and night. We often wake up with prayers, songs, or praises to You running through our mind (Psalm 5:3; Psalm 42:8). Regardless of our social position, nationality, class, or financial status in life, thank You for escorting us through our troubles with Your intimate presence within us (Psalm 34:6).

 

Teach us to forgive others as we pray, so You can forgive us as well (Mark 11:25). We are amazed at the privilege we have, due to Jesus’ sacrifice for us on Calvary’s cross, to approach Your throne and speak to You in our prayers as our friend and Heavenly Father (Hebrews 10:19-25). Help us to spend time in prayer for those who hurt us, as well as for our family, friends, church family, community, and the world (Luke 6:27-28; Matthew 5:44).

 

Thoughts for the Day:

As we rejoice in the hope that God gives to us, having patience in negative circumstances, and continuing to pray during each moment of our day, God answers our prayers in His timing and way. Although His answer may be contrary to what we really want in our heart, we are convinced that He knows what is best for us, and He will protect us and supply all our needs.

- Romans 12:12